Charity funds refurbishment of “home away from home” accommodation

Bournemouth Hospital Charity, part of the newly formed University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity, has funded the upgrade and refurbishment of the family and relatives flat of patients in ITU or undergoing treatment for cancer and blood disorders.

The refurbishment of the accommodation cost £10,000 and will provide a sanctuary for families and relatives of patients on ITU and patients with cancer and blood disorders currently undergoing long, complex and highly intense treatments.

The two bedroom flat, with private kitchen and bathroom facilities is situated at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital site and is now brighter and more functional and has new furniture, lighting and furnishings. The whole flat has been repainted and given new window dressings and artwork. The kitchen has also had a breakfast bar installed.

The accommodation provides family and relatives with a real home away from home environment when they are not at their loved ones bedside and is available free of charge to patients and their relatives for up to a month at a time, depending on the patient or their family member’s needs.

Marie Miller, Matron of Jigsaw/Ward 11 said: “This refurbished accommodation provides a reassurance for patients and their relatives by giving them relief in a time of need enabling families and relatives to provide important support and love.”

Debbie Anderson, University Hospitals Dorset, Head of Charity, said: ‘Every donation from our generous community is vital enabling us to provide this much needed support, comfort and reassurance for patients and their relatives– so thank you to everyone who has donated to our charity because together we do make a difference.”

University Hospitals Dorset values the health and well-being of our patients and their relatives.  This is paramount to supporting patients who are far away from home with many family members from Jersey and Dorchester currently using this facility whilst their loved ones undergo treatments on these wards.

You can help us make a difference and allow us to continue providing services like these which are above and beyond that which can be provided through NHS funding.  Visit our website at bhcharity.org to find out more about current fundraising projects and how you can get involved or call the Charity Office on 0300 019 4060 to donate.